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TimesLIVE
3 days ago
- Business
- TimesLIVE
Youth unemployment won't be solved by deregulation
South Africa's youth unemployment crisis is deepening — again. Stats SA's latest Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS) shows that youth employment dropped by 153,000 in the first quarter of 2025, and formal sector jobs are in retreat. These findings prompted the Daily Maverick to warn of 'The Great Unworking' — an era where the promise of jobs is collapsing, particularly for the young...
The Star
3 days ago
- Business
- The Star
Can digital skills help reduce high rates of youth unemployment?
Professor Khehla Ndlovu | Published 1 hour ago A year into South Africa's national government of unity (GNU), the country's young people remain trapped at the precipice of despair. The promise of job opportunities and pathways for entrepreneurship continues to diminish, especially in a world increasingly led by a youthful population whose inventive thinking often conflicts with the traditional methods of those in power. This disconnection is not merely an abstract idea; it is a tangible reality for millions, showing as a deep sense of exclusion and a suppression of potential. The grim reality of South Africa's youth unemployment crisis is stark and well-documented. Statistics SA's Quarterly Labour Force Survey for the first quarter of this year paints a sobering picture: young people aged 15-24 face a staggering unemployment rate of 62.4%, while those aged 25-34 contend with 40.4%. These are not just numbers; they represent a generation sidelined, their energy and creativity unharnessed. With 20 million South Africans aged between 15 and 34, this demographic forms the largest segment of our population. This demographic dividend, a potential driver of economic growth and social progress, is instead becoming a source of national concern. This alarming reality requires urgent and decisive action, moving beyond mere discussion to implement tangible and impactful measures across all sectors of society. Our collective response must begin at home, extend through our communities, reshape our educational institutions, and energise our civil, public, and private sectors. The goal should be to nurture an active, future-oriented population, equipped to become tomorrow's leaders and innovators. Importantly, this quest for solutions must fully harness the transformative potential of technology. The rapid rise of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI), for example, should not be viewed with concern but as a significant opportunity. It prompts us to reconsider how we can utilise this technology to empower young people, unlock entrepreneurial talent, and boost economic development. It is time to move past the negativity rooted in a failure to recognise opportunities and instead embrace the immense potential within this digital frontier. The Vaal University of Technology (VUT), strategically located in one of Gauteng's most influential industrial regions, has long recognised this necessity. Our commitment goes beyond traditional academic teaching to proactive engagement with the digital future. Through initiatives like our Strategy 2033+, we focus on attracting and nurturing students with exceptional talent and potential, equipping them with the digital skills essential for a rapidly changing job market. Our recent community service project, where our Faculty of Applied and Computer Sciences assisted Suncrest High School's 2025 Grade 12 students with online applications, showcases our commitment to closing the digital gap and promoting a culture of access and opportunity from the grassroots. The Gauteng government's commendable focus on the township economy has achieved significant progress in supporting existing businesses. Nonetheless, our efforts must also shift towards empowering young people in these communities who aspire to start their ventures, developing solutions and products tailored to local needs. This requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders, particularly financial institutions. They must explore innovative, concessional financing models that recognise the unique challenges and vast potential of youth-led township enterprises. We cannot continue to champion the township economy while failing to equip its most dynamic segment – our youth – with the necessary skills and financial lifelines. This year's UNESCO theme, 'Youth empowerment through AI and digital skills,' resonates profoundly with South Africa's challenges and aspirations. As a global community, we are collectively seeking solutions that improve young people's skills for both employment and entrepreneurship. UNESCO and other UN agencies have consistently supported the progress of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). To truly accomplish these goals, we must put our solutions at the centre of the ingenuity and motivation of our young people, recognising them not merely as beneficiaries but as co-creators of our future. Furthermore, the latest World Economic Forum's World of Work report underscores that 'technological change, geoeconomic fragmentation, economic uncertainty, demographic shifts and the green transition – individually and in combination – are among the major drivers expected to shape and transform the global labour market by 2030.' While these are global forces, South Africa has a unique opportunity to lead in adapting and innovating. We can and must surpass the mediocre leadership that has often characterised our response to the challenges faced by our young people. This moment calls for visionary, agile, and collaborative leadership that recognises the urgency of digital transformation. At VUT, our concern about the high rate of youth unemployment runs deep. However, concern alone is not enough. We are committed to rolling up our sleeves and taking action that goes beyond mere talk. This commitment is reflected in concrete steps that clearly show our determination to make a difference. Skills development, especially in digital and AI skills, provides a strong pathway to solutions. Learning institutions are no longer static brick-and-mortar places; they are active partners in national growth, evolving to effectively address today's complex challenges and to produce graduates capable of leading in the digital era. This demands closer collaboration between academia, industry, and government to jointly create curricula, support innovation hubs, and enable smooth transitions from education to employment or entrepreneurship. The path ahead will be challenging. It demands courage, ingenuity, and most importantly, readiness to listen to young people's voices. They are not just the recipients of change; they must be its architects. If we are truly committed to building a future that works for everyone, we must invest in the blueprints that centre on youth, giving them the tools, networks, and confidence to shape their futures. The time for action is now. Professor Ndlovu is the Vice Chancellor of the Vaal University of Technology (VUT)
IOL News
4 days ago
- Business
- IOL News
Can digital skills help reduce high rates of youth unemployment?
This year's UNESCO theme, 'Youth empowerment through AI and digital skills,' resonates profoundly with South Africa's challenges and aspirations. As a global community, we are collectively seeking solutions that improve young people's skills for both employment and entrepreneurship. Image: Ron A year into South Africa's national government of unity (GNU), the country's young people remain trapped at the precipice of despair. The promise of job opportunities and pathways for entrepreneurship continues to diminish, especially in a world increasingly led by a youthful population whose inventive thinking often conflicts with the traditional methods of those in power. This disconnection is not merely an abstract idea; it is a tangible reality for millions, showing as a deep sense of exclusion and a suppression of potential. The grim reality of South Africa's youth unemployment crisis is stark and well-documented. Statistics SA's Quarterly Labour Force Survey for the first quarter of this year paints a sobering picture: young people aged 15-24 face a staggering unemployment rate of 62.4%, while those aged 25-34 contend with 40.4%. These are not just numbers; they represent a generation sidelined, their energy and creativity unharnessed. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ With 20 million South Africans aged between 15 and 34, this demographic forms the largest segment of our population. This demographic dividend, a potential driver of economic growth and social progress, is instead becoming a source of national concern. This alarming reality requires urgent and decisive action, moving beyond mere discussion to implement tangible and impactful measures across all sectors of society. Our collective response must begin at home, extend through our communities, reshape our educational institutions, and energise our civil, public, and private sectors. The goal should be to nurture an active, future-oriented population, equipped to become tomorrow's leaders and innovators. Importantly, this quest for solutions must fully harness the transformative potential of technology. The rapid rise of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI), for example, should not be viewed with concern but as a significant opportunity. It prompts us to reconsider how we can utilise this technology to empower young people, unlock entrepreneurial talent, and boost economic development. It is time to move past the negativity rooted in a failure to recognise opportunities and instead embrace the immense potential within this digital frontier. Prof Ndlovu Image: Supplied The Vaal University of Technology (VUT), strategically located in one of Gauteng's most influential industrial regions, has long recognised this necessity. Our commitment goes beyond traditional academic teaching to proactive engagement with the digital future. Through initiatives like our Strategy 2033+, we focus on attracting and nurturing students with exceptional talent and potential, equipping them with the digital skills essential for a rapidly changing job market. Our recent community service project, where our Faculty of Applied and Computer Sciences assisted Suncrest High School's 2025 Grade 12 students with online applications, showcases our commitment to closing the digital gap and promoting a culture of access and opportunity from the grassroots. The Gauteng government's commendable focus on the township economy has achieved significant progress in supporting existing businesses. Nonetheless, our efforts must also shift towards empowering young people in these communities who aspire to start their ventures, developing solutions and products tailored to local needs. This requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders, particularly financial institutions. They must explore innovative, concessional financing models that recognise the unique challenges and vast potential of youth-led township enterprises. We cannot continue to champion the township economy while failing to equip its most dynamic segment – our youth – with the necessary skills and financial lifelines. This year's UNESCO theme, 'Youth empowerment through AI and digital skills,' resonates profoundly with South Africa's challenges and aspirations. As a global community, we are collectively seeking solutions that improve young people's skills for both employment and entrepreneurship. UNESCO and other UN agencies have consistently supported the progress of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). To truly accomplish these goals, we must put our solutions at the centre of the ingenuity and motivation of our young people, recognising them not merely as beneficiaries but as co-creators of our future. Furthermore, the latest World Economic Forum's World of Work report underscores that 'technological change, geoeconomic fragmentation, economic uncertainty, demographic shifts and the green transition – individually and in combination – are among the major drivers expected to shape and transform the global labour market by 2030.' While these are global forces, South Africa has a unique opportunity to lead in adapting and innovating. We can and must surpass the mediocre leadership that has often characterised our response to the challenges faced by our young people. This moment calls for visionary, agile, and collaborative leadership that recognises the urgency of digital transformation. At VUT, our concern about the high rate of youth unemployment runs deep. However, concern alone is not enough. We are committed to rolling up our sleeves and taking action that goes beyond mere talk. This commitment is reflected in concrete steps that clearly show our determination to make a difference. Skills development, especially in digital and AI skills, provides a strong pathway to solutions. Learning institutions are no longer static brick-and-mortar places; they are active partners in national growth, evolving to effectively address today's complex challenges and to produce graduates capable of leading in the digital era. This demands closer collaboration between academia, industry, and government to jointly create curricula, support innovation hubs, and enable smooth transitions from education to employment or entrepreneurship. The path ahead will be challenging. It demands courage, ingenuity, and most importantly, readiness to listen to young people's voices. They are not just the recipients of change; they must be its architects. If we are truly committed to building a future that works for everyone, we must invest in the blueprints that centre on youth, giving them the tools, networks, and confidence to shape their futures. The time for action is now. Professor Ndlovu is the Vice Chancellor of the Vaal University of Technology (VUT)
IOL News
5 days ago
- Business
- IOL News
SA's youth unemployment crisis: Can digital skills unlock their future?
A year into South Africa's national government of unity (GNU), the country's young people remain trapped at the precipice of despair. The promise of job opportunities and pathways for entrepreneurship continues to diminish, especially in a world increasingly led by a youthful population whose inventive thinking often conflicts with the traditional methods of those in power. This disconnection is not merely an abstract idea; it is a tangible reality for millions, showing as a deep sense of exclusion and a suppression of potential. Professor Khehla Ndlovu said the youth are not just the recipients of change; they must be its architects. He added that if SA is truly committed to building a future that works for everyone, we must invest in the blueprints that centre on youth, giving them the tools, networks, and confidence to shape their own futures The grim reality of South Africa's youth unemployment crisis is stark and well-documented. Statistics SA's Quarterly Labour Force Survey for the first quarter of this year paints a sobering picture: young people aged 15-24 face a staggering unemployment rate of 62.4%, while those aged 25-34 contend with 40.4%. These are not just numbers; they represent a generation sidelined, their energy and creativity unharnessed. With 20 million South Africans aged between 15 and 34, this demographic forms the largest segment of our population. This demographic dividend, a potential driver of economic growth and social progress, is instead becoming a source of national concern. This alarming reality requires urgent and decisive action, moving beyond mere discussion to implement tangible and impactful measures across all sectors of society. Our collective response must begin at home, extend through our communities, reshape our educational institutions, and energise our civil, public, and private sectors. The goal should be to nurture an active, future-oriented population, equipped to become tomorrow's leaders and innovators. Importantly, this quest for solutions must fully harness the transformative potential of technology. The rapid rise of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI), for example, should not be viewed with concern but as a significant opportunity. It prompts us to reconsider how we can utilise this technology to empower young people, unlock entrepreneurial talent, and boost economic development. It is time to move past the negativity rooted in a failure to recognise opportunities and instead embrace the immense potential within this digital frontier. At the Vaal University of Technology (VUT), strategically located in one of Gauteng's most influential industrial regions, we have long recognised this necessity. Our commitment goes beyond traditional academic teaching to proactive engagement with the digital future. Through initiatives like our Strategy 2033+, we focus on attracting and nurturing students with exceptional talent and potential, equipping them with the digital skills essential for a rapidly changing job market. Our recent community service project, where our Faculty of Applied and Computer Sciences assisted Suncrest High School's 2025 Grade 12 students with online applications, showcases our commitment to closing the digital gap and promoting a culture of access and opportunity from the grassroots. The Gauteng government's commendable focus on the township economy has achieved significant progress in supporting existing businesses. Nonetheless, our efforts must also shift towards empowering young people in these communities who aspire to start their own ventures, developing solutions and products tailored to local needs. This requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders, particularly financial institutions. They must explore innovative, concessional financing models that recognise the unique challenges and vast potential of youth-led township enterprises. We cannot continue to champion the township economy while failing to equip its most dynamic segment – our youth – with the necessary skills and financial lifelines. This year's UNESCO theme, 'Youth empowerment through AI and digital skills,' resonates profoundly with South Africa's challenges and aspirations. As a global community, we are collectively seeking solutions that improve young people's skills for both employment and entrepreneurship. UNESCO and other UN agencies have consistently supported the progress of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). To truly accomplish these goals, we must put our solutions at the centre of the ingenuity and motivation of our young people, recognising them not merely as beneficiaries but as co-creators of our future. Furthermore, the latest World Economic Forum's World of Work report underscores that 'technological change, geoeconomic fragmentation, economic uncertainty, demographic shifts and the green transition – individually and in combination – are among the major drivers expected to shape and transform the global labour market by 2030.' While these are global forces, South Africa has a unique opportunity to lead in adapting and innovating. We can and must surpass the mediocre leadership that has often characterised our response to the challenges faced by our young people. This moment calls for visionary, agile, and collaborative leadership that recognises the urgency of digital transformation. At VUT, our concern about the high rate of youth unemployment runs deep. However, concern alone is not enough. We are committed to rolling up our sleeves and taking action that goes beyond mere talk. This commitment is reflected in concrete steps that clearly show our determination to make a difference. Skills development, especially in digital and AI skills, provides a strong pathway to solutions. Learning institutions are no longer static brick-and-mortar places; they are active partners in national growth, evolving to effectively address today's complex challenges and to produce graduates capable of leading in the digital era. This demands closer collaboration between academia, industry, and government to jointly create curricula, support innovation hubs, and enable smooth transitions from education to employment or entrepreneurship. The path ahead will be challenging. It demands courage, ingenuity, and most importantly, readiness to listen to young people's. The time for action is now. Professor Khehla Ndlovu is the Vice Chancellor of the Vaal University of Technology (VUT)
eNCA
18-07-2025
- eNCA
SAPS flagged with over 900,000 job applications but only 5,500 will be hired
JOHANNESBURG - As South Africa grapples with a worsening unemployment crisis, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has been flooded with over 900,000 applications. These applications are just for 5,500 police trainee posts targeting young men and women aged 18 to 35. This influx of applications highlights the desperation of thousands of unemployed youth seeking stable employment. With the application window set to close on 18 July, young women accounted for the majority of submissions. According to police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, 527,673 applications have come from females, while 400,204 have come from male applicants. The Bigger Picture Unemployment Deepens In June, the Department of Labour recently released new statistics showing that the youth unemployment rate is now at a shocking 46.1 % Many young people are not just looking for jobs; they are also trying to gain skills and knowledge for the careers they want to pursue. According to the Quarterly Labour Force Survey by Statistics South Africa for the first quarter of 2025: The number of unemployed youth increased by 151,000, reaching 4.8 million. Employed youth decreased by 153,000, now totalling 5.7 million. The youth unemployment rate went up from 44.6 % at the end of 2024 to 46.1 % in the first quarter of 2025. Looking at the overall labour market:
